West Virginia Gun Laws

Learn about gun control laws, gun permit requirements, and penalties in West Virginia.

In West Virginia, adults can purchase a gun without a license.
However, you must obtain a concealed handgun license to carry a
concealed gun in your car or on (or near) your body, unless you are in
your own home, on your own property, or at your place of business. (W.
Va. Code § 61-7-4.)

How to Obtain a Concealed Handgun License in West Virginia

To
obtain a concealed handgun license, you must apply at the sheriff’s
office in the county where you reside. To qualify, you must:

be
at least 21 years old, or at least 18 years old if you are required to
carry a concealed weapon as a condition for your employment

be a resident of West Virginia, and of the county where you are applying for a permit

not be addicted to or an unlawful user of alcohol or a controlled substance

not have been convicted of a felony or any act of violence involving the misuse of a deadly weapon

not have been convicted of certain specified misdemeanors

not be currently under indictment, serving a sentence, or under a protective order for certain domestic violence crimes

physically and mentally competent to carry a weapon, and never adjudicated as mentally incompetent

successfully complete a handgun safety and training course, and

pay a $15 fee.

(W. Va. Code § 61-7-4.)

Does West Virginia Recognize Concealed Handgun Licenses From Other States?

Yes.
West Virginia recognizes concealed handgun carry permits issued by
states with whom West Virginia has reciprocity agreements, as long as
the permit holder:

is at least 21 years old

has the permit in the person’s possession, and

is not a West Virginia resident.

(W. Va. Code § 61-7-6a.)

The West Virginia Attorney General’s website provides a list of states with reciprocity agreements with West Virginia.

Penalties for Failing to Obtain a Concealed Handgun License

It
is a misdemeanor to carry a handgun in West Virginia without a
concealed carry license (unless you are in your own home, on your own
property, or at your fixed place of business). Penalties for a first
offense include a fine of at least $100 (and up to $1,000), up to 12
months in jail, or both. Second and subsequent offenses incur a fine of
at least $1,000 (and up to $5,000), at least one year (and up to five
years) in prison, or both. (W. Va. Code § 61-7-3.)

Getting Legal Help

If
you have any questions about whether you are allowed to carry a gun in
West Virginia, or if you are facing charges for a gun permit violation,
consult a qualified criminal defense lawyer.